There are numerous reasons why food trucks are flooding our streets and will keep booming, especially when you consider the swiftness, affordability, and convenience it has injected into the food industry.
However, when it comes to serving what kids will love and enjoy, it becomes quite challenging as you will need to come up with a menu that aligns with their taste buds while also meeting the expectations of parents who are often out for nutritious options.
Keep in mind that a properly run kid-friendly food truck menu needs to have a good balance of fun, flavor, and healthy choices. If you are looking to serve kids, below are valid food truck menu ideas to consider.
Tasty Food Truck Menu ideas for Kids
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Mini Sliders and Hot Dogs
Note that kids are naturally drawn to foods they can hold and eat easily. Owing to that, you would want to consider mini sliders and hot dogs that are well-known bite-sized versions of classic favorites, and this makes them a suitable option for little hands, and big appetites.
It is recommended you make available an assortment of sliders, such as classic cheeseburgers, chicken, and veggie sliders. It is also possible to make available a build-your-own option that enables kids to decide the toppings they want from a selection like cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, or even fun extras such as bacon bits or onion rings.
Do not forget to also include hot dogs but make them more alluring by making available a range of toppings including cheese, ketchup, and mustard, as well as other creative options like macaroni and cheese, chili, or a coleslaw topping.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
You would also want to include this comfort food into your menu especially since kids tend to enjoy it owing to their simplicity and cheesiness.
Aside from that, it is one meal that can be easily modified to fit new flavors and ingredients. It is recommended you begin with the classic American cheese on white bread but make available other varieties such as cheddar and mozzarella on whole wheat or sourdough bread.
To give customers more options, include add-ons like ham, turkey, or even vegetables such as tomatoes, spinach, and avocado.
If the plan is to provide customers with healthier options, then make use of whole grain bread, and low-fat cheese, as well as add a side of tomato soup or a small salad.
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Mac and Cheese Cups
One of the main reasons why this is a good choice to consider is the fact that it is a perennial favorite among kids, and they relish it due to its creamy, cheesy goodness.
Howbeit, note that serving it in portable cups makes it convenient for kids to eat while moving around. You would want to make available a basic recipe leveraging quality cheese to guarantee a rich flavor.
Be sure to make available a few variations, like infusing crispy bacon, and steamed broccoli, or converting it into a “pizza mac” by infusing marinara sauce and pepperoni.
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Chicken Tenders and Nuggets
You would also want to include this popular meal that has proven to be loved and appreciated by kids. Although traditional fried chicken tenders are a must-have in your menu, it is recommended you consider offering baked or grilled versions to attract health-conscious parents.
It is also very possible to provide gluten-free options by leveraging alternative breading such as almond flour or panko crumbs.
Boost the attractiveness of your meal by providing a variety of dipping sauces, like honey mustard, BBQ, ranch, or a tangy buffalo sauce to ensure you cater to adventurous eaters.
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Mini Pizza Bites
Pizza is globally loved, and making it bite-sized has proven to be one way to make it convenient and enjoyable for kids. However, to set your business apart, it is recommended you offer a base mini pizza with tomato sauce and cheese, and give room for kids to make use of toppings such as pepperoni, ham, veggies, or pineapple.
Note that aside from making the meal more interactive, keep in mind that it as well lets parents direct their children toward healthier toppings such as mushrooms, peppers, or spinach.
Make sure to leverage whole wheat or cauliflower crusts to be certain you are providing a healthier option. You can also take into account dairy-free cheese alternatives for kids with lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.
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Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are a fun and enticing way to serve fruit, as well as a good way to direct kids towards healthy snacks or desserts. To make it, you just need to skewer a mix of colorful fruits like strawberries, grapes, pineapple, melon, and kiwi.
The alluring colors grab the interest of children, and the wide assortment of flavors keeps them engaged. It is also possible to give children the opportunity to build their own kabobs by selecting their favorite fruits. Also, make available a yogurt-based dipping sauce or a small side of whipped cream for added fun.
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Smoothies and Milkshakes
They are known to be quite refreshing, and delicious, and can be made with ingredients well renowned for their important nutrients.
To make smoothies, go with fresh or frozen fruits such as bananas, strawberries, and blueberries, coupled with yogurt or milk, to come up with a nutritious and tasty smoothie.
To give it an extra edge, you can infuse a hidden veggie such as spinach or kale to further heighten its nutritional value without affecting the taste.
In terms of milkshakes, it is recommended you provide classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, but also take into account lower-sugar options curated from frozen yogurt or almond milk. Ensure to include toppings bar with sprinkles, fruit, or mini chocolate chips.
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Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels are another very valid choice to include in any food truck menu. They are well renowned for being sweet or savory, and this makes them a flexible menu item.
You can offer plain salted pretzels, in addition to flavored options such as cinnamon sugar, garlic parmesan, or jalapeño cheddar. Make available a wide array of dips, such as cheese sauce, mustard, or even chocolate.
Also, take into account whole-grain or gluten-free pretzels for kids with dietary restrictions. You can choose to serve pretzels with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad to ensure you have a more balanced meal.
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Ice Cream Cones and Popsicles
These are some of the best treats a food truck can offer, particularly during warm weather. They are refreshing, sweet, and easily customizable to align with varying preferences.
Be sure to provide customers with classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, coupled with unique options such as cookies and cream or mint chocolate chip.
Make available numerous toppings including sprinkles, crushed nuts, or chocolate syrup for kids to personally tailor their cones.
If you would want to include a healthier option, then add fruit-based popsicles that are made from real fruit juice or puree. Note that these might be as simple as orange, berry, or tropical flavors.
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Mini Tacos
One of the reasons to consider tacos is the fact that they are a fun, handheld food that gives room for assorted customization. Note that mini tacos are ideal for kids since it is one way to enjoy the flavors they love in a size that’s convenient.
You would want to provide a range of fillings such as seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
Do not skip soft tortillas to guarantee easier handling while also making available varying topping choices such as cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Consider making use of lean meats, whole wheat tortillas, and fresh veggies to ensure you provide customers with tacos that are healthy and nutritious.